The effects of arousal on time perception

The present study focused on the effects of arousal and how this may affect time estimation. According to the Cognitive Timer Theory, time perception may be controlled by an internal timing mechanism that is capable of altering its speed. Higher levels of arousal will cause the perceived duration of time to become increasingly longer than the actual interval. Arousal levels were manipulated using threats of electrical shock set at various intensity levels (low, high and control). Heart rates were used as the index of arousal, and these were measured against subjects' perception of a time interval. After a baseline heart rate measured was taken, subjects had a bracelet attached to their wrist (in belief that the shocks would be received via this bracelet). The waiting period was 150 seconds. No significant differences were found among the three shock groups, for both the changes in arousal levels or in the time estimates given.